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 John Coltrane - Coltrane

John Coltrane - Coltrane John Coltrane's self-titled debut "Coltrane," recorded in 1957, remains a venerated jazz classic to this day. Now, presented in CD format utilizing the 20 bit K2 Supercoding process, the music becomes brighter and more definitive than it ever has before.

After serving admirable apprenticeships with Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and Sonny Rollins, Trane, as he was affectionately called, was ready to expand upon the auspicious foundation that he had built with the very best in jazz music.

Famous music critic Ira Gilter, referred to Coltrane's music as sheets of sound. This was an extremely admiring comment to make. As rigid and structured as music can be, Trane took a decidedly different road. Other critics were not so kind. This did not deter the man from continuing making music his way. Of course now, he is looked upon as musical genius… and rightfully so.

Coltrane borrowed Mile's bass player, Paul Chambers, and on piano, both Red Garland (another member of Davis's group), and Mal Waldron (Billie Holiday) joined in on the session. On drums, Al "Tootie" Heath from Philadelphia, stepped in to complete the rhythm section. John Splawn, a trumpet player, added his talent to the cast on three of the tracks. And on saxophone, is Sahib Shihab, whom also appears on three selections. That was the lineup for Coltrane's first solo album.

This CD comprises six tracks of prime classic jazz improvisation, by one of the true innovators of the tenor saxophone. It's heard in all its glory in a pristine remastered version, suitable for audiophiles and the pure jazz lovers at heart. I would consider myself to be both, and I do have discerning ears.

I found "While My Lady Sleeps" a particularly intriguing piece, suitable for a spy or mystery soundtrack. Although, I must admit that I was perfectly spellbound throughout the entire listen. Garland's piano is elegant and exciting, capturing an accurate portrait of what jazz music was in the fifties. I found myself literally taken away by Coltrane's magic. It was hard not to get swept away by this musical masterwork etched in time. This is as perfect a remaster that you could possibly hope for. The sonics are outstanding, and the sound incredibly crisp and clear. This is a revelation in music from a soon to be jazz giant, and the commencement of his legacy.



© Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck
Posted By: Keith Hannaleck
Genre: Jazz
Record Label: Fantasy http://www.fantasyjazz.com
Website: http://www.johncoltrane.com


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